2016 Pine Ridge California Chenin Blanc-Viognier

Crisp and tangy, this light-bodied wine has a (pardon the pun) piny green-apple aroma, vivid apple and lime flavors and lively acidity. It will be especially good as an apéritif to whet the appetite. (JG) (12/2017)

In the early 1990s, Pine Ridge crafted this delectable blend as an experimental bottling, creating one of their most beloved and popular wines to date. This unlikely marriage of two generally uncoupled varietals unites the crisp, honeyed fruit of Chenin Blanc with the plush body and juicy stone fruit notes of Viognier, for a wine that is both sophisticated and easy to enjoy. As do several other Napa Valley and Sonoma County wineries, Pine Ridge sources the Chenin (80%) from the Clarksburg appellation in the Sacramento River Delta, while the Viognier (20%) comes from Lodi. Try this versatile white with salads and lighter fare with a touch of spiciness. The winery's tasting note: "Crisp, bright, and vivacious, CBV 2016 is an aromatic white blend boasting a bouquet of orange blossom, honeysuckle, tropical fruit, and citrus. The refreshing palate reveals crisp lemon-lime and yuzu joined by luscious flavors of apricot, white peach, nectarine, and exotic tropical flavors of guava, pineapple, and mango. Flint minerality and balanced acidity carry through the clean, lingering finish."